Fire-fighting control system

ABSTRACT

A control system for use with a fire-fighting device includes a remote component having a touch sensitive screen configured to receive a user-requested parameter of fluid and to display a plurality of indicators associated with the fire-fighting device. The control system also includes a base component including a programmable logic controller having predefined logic stored thereon. The base component automatically controls operation of the pump based on the predefined logic and the user-requested parameter of fluid. The remote component receives signals from the base component and presents, via the touch sensitive screen, at least one of a first of the plurality of indicators indicative of a water volume associated with a first water source stored at a fire fighting device, and a second of the plurality of indicators indicative of a water pressure associated with a second water source remote from the fire-fighting device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/454,913, filed Nov. 15, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/734,864, filed Jan. 6, 2020, now U.S. Pat. No.11,173,331, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/899,183, filed Feb. 19, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,525,294, which isa continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/417,568, filedJan. 27, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,919,170, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/947,316, filed Nov. 20, 2015, nowU.S. Pat. No. 9,564,028, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/800,320, filed Mar. 13, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No.9,220,935, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/879,503, filed Sep. 10, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,418,773, thedisclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to control systems and, morespecifically, to control systems for use in controlling a fire-fightingdevice.

Fire-fighting pumper trucks (broadly referred to herein as a“fire-fighting device”) are used to fight fires by pumping liquid (e.g.,water, foam, or another flame retardant) from a source through hoselines wherein the liquid may be directed; i.e., sprayed, on a fire tofacilitate the extinguishing or containing the fire. Known pumper trucksinclude controls to regulate the operation of the truck and to controlthe flow of liquid from the truck into the hose lines. Such controlsgenerally include a plurality of valves used to control the flow ofliquid to a fire pump from a storage tank transported onboard the truckor from another liquid supply source (e.g., a fire hydrant). Such valvesalso enable control of the flow of liquid from the fire pump to firehoses or other discharge devices. Known controls include pressure andflow rate gauges used to monitor the pressure and flow rate of liquid atvarious locations within the pumper truck. For example, pressure gaugesmay monitor the pressure of the liquid received by the fire pump fromthe supply source. Generally the pumper truck controls used to regulatethe valves and the fire pump, as well as the pressure and flow rategauges, are commonly positioned in a control panel on the side of thepumper truck.

In known pumper trucks, during use, an operator, typically referred toas an engineer, must manually operate the controls of the pumper truck.More specifically, the engineer manually manipulates the controls toalter the flow rate and/or to control the pressure of liquid output bythe pumper truck to a hose. Moreover, during operation, a firefighterpositioned near a nozzle of the hose coupled to the pumper truckverbally communicates to the engineer (typically via a hand-held radio)any desired changes in the flow rate and/or pressure of liquid deliveredthrough the hose to the nozzle. In response, the engineer manuallyadjusts the controls to enable the desired change in the flow rateand/or pressure of liquid delivered through the hose to be achieved. Itis common for one engineer to be responsible for monitoring andresponding to communications from multiple firefighters that each have aseparate hose coupled to the same pumper truck. Moreover, the sameengineer may also be responsible for acting as a spotter and/orcontrolling the operations of a mechanized fire ladder.

Accordingly, known control systems rely on the engineer to translate andexecute orders communicated by a firefighter, and in response, tomanipulate the controls of the pumper truck. The reliance on theengineer increases both the cost of operations and introduces thepossibility of human error, as the engineer must listen to andunderstand verbal commands that may be difficult to understand and/orinterpret depending on the location of the firefighter, the location ofthe fire, and/or other factors including environmental factors.Moreover, known systems cannot be used to simulate the operation of thecontrols of the pumper truck or to the fighting of a fire to aid intraining of fire-fighting personnel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, a control system for use with a fire-fighting deviceconnected to a pump is provided. The system includes a user interfaceconfigured to receive a user-requested parameter of fluid, and a basecomponent in communication with the user interface. The base componentincludes a programmable logic controller having predefined logic storedthereon. The base component automatically controls operation of the pumpbased on the predefined logic, the user-requested parameter of fluid,and at least two of: a first actuation state of a first valve configuredto control a first flow of liquid from a storage tank at thefire-fighting device, a second actuation state of a second valveconfigured to control a second flow of liquid from a remote watersource, a third actuation state of a third valve configured to control athird flow of liquid to a nozzle, a volume of water stored at thestorage tank, and a water pressure associated with the remote watersource.

In another aspect, a control system for use with a fire-fighting deviceis provided. The system includes a pump connected to the fire-fightingdevice, a storage tank connected to the fire-fighting device for storinga volume of water, a first valve controlling a first flow of liquid fromthe storage tank, a second valve controlling a second flow of liquidfrom a remote water source, a third valve controlling a third flow ofliquid to a nozzle associated with the fire-fighting device, a basecomponent connected to the fire-fighting device, and a user interface incommunication with the base component. The base component includes aprogrammable logic controller having predefined logic stored thereon.The user interface is configured to receive a user-requested parameterof fluid. The base component automatically controls operation of thepump based on the predefined logic, the user-requested parameter offluid, and at least two of: a first actuation state of the first valve,a second actuation state of the second valve, a third actuation state ofthe third valve, a volume of water stored at the storage tank, and awater pressure associated with the remote water source.

In another aspect, a method of controlling a fire-fighting deviceconnected to a pump is provided. The method includes receiving, at thefire-fighting device, instructions input by a user from a user interfacein communication with the fire-fighting device. The receivedinstructions include at least one of a desired pressure of water to beoutput from a discharge end of a hose and a desired flow rate of wateroutput from the discharge end of the hose. The method further includesdetermining, with a programmable logic controller, based on predefinedlogic whether to execute the instructions received from the userinterface, and controlling operation of the fire-fighting device withthe programmable logic controller based on the determination of whetherto execute the instructions received from the user interface, and atleast two of: a first actuation state of a first valve configured tocontrol a first flow of liquid from a storage tank at the fire-fightingdevice, a second actuation state of a second valve configured to controla second flow of liquid from a remote water source, and a thirdactuation state of a third valve configured to control a third flow ofliquid to the discharge end of the hose.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an exemplary fire-fighting system.

FIG. 2 is a side view of an exemplary nozzle.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an exemplary remote component that may beused with the fire-fighting system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplaryremote component.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an exemplary fire-fighting simulationsystem.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method of controlling afire-fighting system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The exemplary systems and method described herein overcome disadvantagesof known fire-fighting control systems by enabling remote control of afire-fighting device by a firefighter that is positioned a distance awayfrom the fire-fighting device. As such, when using the systems andmethod described herein, a second firefighter/control operator does notneed to be positioned near the fire-fighting device to manually controlthe fire-fighting device. Moreover, the embodiments described hereinenable a user to be effectively trained on operation of thefire-fighting device in a simulation environment. As used herein, theterms user, control operator and firefighter, are used interchangeably.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an exemplary fire-fighting control system100. In the exemplary embodiment, control system 100 includes a basecomponent 110 that is coupled by a communication link 112 to a pump 120.A tank 130 and a liquid source 140 are also coupled to pump 120. Aremote component 180 is wirelessly coupled to base component 110, and aladder 170 is also coupled to base component 110. In other embodiments,remote component 180 is wirelessly or otherwise coupled to othercomponents (e.g., light towers, generators, scene lights, winches, cablereels, rescue tools, and/or any other electrically, hydraulically, orpneumatically controlled piece of equipment used in fire-fighting orrescue operations) in the fire-fighting device to control theiroperation as well.

More specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, ladder 170 is aturntable ladder that is pneumatically or hydraulically powered and iscapable of being selectively telescoped between a retracted position anda fully extended position. Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, ladder170 is coupled to a turntable and is thus pivotable. In the exemplaryembodiment, base component 110, ladder 170, tank 130, and pump 120 arecoupled to a fire-fighting device (not shown), such as a fire truck,used in system 100. In other embodiments, any of base component 110,ladder 170, tank 130, and/or pump 120 may not be coupled to thefire-fighting device.

A liquid used to fight or suppress a fire is stored in tank 130. In theexemplary embodiment, the liquid is water. In other embodiments, anyother liquid such as a foam-like substance or other flame retardant maybe contained in tank 130. Tank 130 is coupled via a tank supply line 138to pump 120 to enable liquid to be selectively supplied to pump 120. Atank supply valve 134 coupled to tank supply line 138 provides controlof a flow of liquid from tank 130 to pump 120. A tank recirculation line136 enables liquid to be re-circulated from pump 120 to tank 130.

A liquid source 140 is coupled to pump 120 via a source line 146. Acontrol valve 142 coupled to source line 146 enables the flow of liquidfrom liquid source 140 to pump 120 to be selectively controlled. Apressure gauge 144 coupled to source line 146 is used to measure anoperating pressure of liquid in source line 146. In the exemplaryembodiment, the liquid discharged from liquid source 140 is water. Inother embodiments, the liquid discharged from source 140 may be anyother liquid such as, but not limited to, a foam-like substance or otherflame retardant liquid. In the exemplary embodiment, liquid source 140is a fire hydrant, although in other embodiments liquid source 140 maybe any source of liquid, such as a river, lake, or other body of water.In the exemplary embodiment, pump 120 is operable to selectively filltank 130 with liquid from liquid source 140.

A first nozzle 156 is coupled to pump 120 via a first hose line 150. Afirst hose valve 154 coupled to line 150 is used to selectively controla flow of liquid from pump 120 to first nozzle 156, and a first pressuregauge 152 coupled to line 150 is used to measure an operating pressureof liquid in first hose line 150. A second nozzle 166 is coupled to pump120 via a second hose line 160. A second hose valve 154 coupled to line160 is used to control a flow of liquid from pump 120 to second nozzle166, and a second pressure gauge 162 is coupled to line 160 to measurethe operating pressure of liquid in second hose line 160. In theexemplary embodiment, only two hose lines 150 and 160 are illustrated,but it should be noted that in other embodiments, more or less than twohose lines and accompanying valves, nozzles, and pressure gauges may beused. First nozzle 156 and/or second nozzle 166 may be carried orselectively positioned by firefighters.

In one embodiment, at least one of nozzle 156 and/or nozzle 166 ispositioned adjacent to an end of ladder 170. More specifically, in suchan embodiment, first nozzle 156 and/or second nozzle 166 is coupled to amounting structure (not shown) that is selectively moveable by actuatorsto enable first nozzle 156 and/or second nozzle 166 to be aimed towardsa target (e.g., a fire or a structure). Moreover, a camera (not shown)may be coupled to the end of ladder 170 and/or in the alternative, tothe mounting structure. Such a camera may be wirelessly coupled to basecomponent 110 and/or to remote component 180 such that images capturedby the camera may be wirelessly communicated to base component 110and/or remote component 180 for viewing by a user remote from thecamera.

FIG. 2 is a side view of an exemplary nozzle and FIG. 3 is a top planview of an exemplary remote component. More specifically, in FIG. 2first nozzle 156 and first hose line 150 are illustrated in phantom. Inthe exemplary embodiment, first nozzle 156 and second nozzle 166 areidentical. In other embodiments nozzle 156 is different than nozzle 166.In the exemplary embodiment, nozzle 156 includes a nozzle handle 230that is coupled to a nozzle body 238. A bail 234 is coupled to nozzlebody 238 to control the position of a valve (not shown) in nozzle body238 that regulates the flow of liquid from a nozzle outlet 232. A bailposition sensor 236 communicates the position of bail 234 to remotecomponent 180. In the exemplary embodiment, remote component 180 ispositioned atop nozzle body 238 and first nozzle 156 is formed from aheat-resistant material or materials such as anodized aluminum or anyother type of aluminum with a nylon valve body. A rechargeable battery(not shown) coupled with nozzle body 238 is electrically coupled toremote component 180. In other embodiments, a rechargeable battery maybe positioned external to nozzle body 238, such as within remotecomponent 180. In the exemplary embodiment, the rechargeable battery isrecharged when either remote component 180 or nozzle body 238 is placedin a charging cradle (not shown). Alternatively, the rechargeablebattery may be removed from nozzle body 238 and inserted in the chargingcradle to be recharged.

In the exemplary embodiment, remote component 180, includes variousselectors and/or controls 186 that may be manipulated to facilitatecontrol and operation of system 100. While only one remote component 180is illustrated, it should be understood that system 100 includesmultiple separate remote components 180 for use in controlling operationof each nozzle. The layout of controls 186 (broadly, an “input device)included in remote component 180 as illustrated in FIG. 3, for example,is exemplary only, and system 100 may include any number of controls 186that are positioned in any orientation that enables system 100 tofunction as described herein. For example, in the exemplary embodiment,at least some controls 186 are included in remote component 180 tofacilitate control of the operating pressure in first hose line 150,second hose line 160, and/or any other hose lines included in system100. Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, controls 186 are alsoincluded in remote component 180 to facilitate control of 132, 134, 144,154 and/or 164. Controls 186 also control operation of pump 120. In theexemplary embodiment any and/or all of controls 186 may be selectivelycontrollable by a firefighter via remote component 180. Moreover, remotecomponent 180 also communicates the position of bail 234 to othercomponents of system 100.

FIG. 4 shows an alternative remote component 182 that may be used withsystem 100. In the exemplary embodiment, remote component 182 issubstantially similar to remote component 180. Accordingly, in theexemplary embodiment, remote control 182 includes same controls 186 asremote component 180, and also includes ladder controls 188 for use incontrolling ladder 170. More specifically, in the exemplary embodiment,ladder controls 188 include at least one joystick. In other embodiments,ladder controls 188 may include any other control device that enablesremote component 180 to function as described herein. Alternatively,remote component 182 may replace remote component 180 without departingfrom the scope of the embodiments.

Remote components 180, 182 also include various indicators 184 (broadly,“output devices”) that are positioned adjacent to each control 186.Indicators 186 provide a visual indication of the actual pressure infirst hose line 150, second hose line 160, and/or other hose lines (notshown) in system 100. Indicators 184 are also included in remotecomponent 180 to provide a visual indicator of the actuation states ofvalves 132, 134, 144, 154, and/or 164 in system 100. Moreover, in someembodiments, remote component 180 may also include audio and/orgraphical displays that are triggered based on response to signalsreceived from base component 110. For example, remote component 180 mayinclude indicators 184 that display warning messages communicated frombase component 110. Remote component 180 may also include an inputdevice (not shown) for use in communicating other information to basecomponent 110. In other embodiments, remote component 180 may alsoinclude indicators 184 that display a colored light (e.g., a greenlight) when system 100 is ready to provide liquid to fire nozzle 156and/or second nozzle 166 and another colored light (e.g., a red light)when system 100 is in a predetermined operational status or whenspecific controls 186 are not ready for actuation on remote component180. Remote components 180, 182 may also include other indicators suchas, but not limited to, an LED water level indicator, warningindicator(s), and/or an audible output device or strobe light for aid inlocating remote component 180 in limited/low visibility conditions.Moreover, the audible output device or strobe light on remote component180 may be activated by another user at base component 110.

In the exemplary embodiment, remote component 180 includes a touchsensitive screen that overlays a graphical display. Accordingly, in suchan embodiment, controls 186 are manipulated by a user by pressing on thepredetermined locations on the screen. In the exemplary embodiment,indicators 184 and controls 186 on remote component 180 are easilyreconfigured. For example, remote component 180 may be capable ofdisplaying different sets of controls 186 and indicators 184.

Remote component 180 is integrally formed with first nozzle 156 in theexemplary embodiment. Alternatively, remote component 180 may be coupledto first nozzle 156. Moreover, an additional remote component similar toor the same as remote component 180, or 182 may be portable and worn orcarried by a firefighter (not shown) positioned adjacent to secondnozzle 166 or first nozzle 156. For example, such a remote component maybe portable and may be carried by the firefighter on a lanyard or via ahandle extruding from remote component 180.

Remote component 182 is portable and may be carried by a firefighterpositioned in a basket (not shown) at the end of ladder 170 thusenabling the firefighter to use ladder controls 188 to control theposition of ladder 170. In another embodiment, remote component 182 maybe carried by an operator (i.e., an engineer) that is not in the basketand that is acting as a spotter for those in ladder 170. Morespecifically, when first nozzle 156 and/or second nozzle 166 arepositioned adjacent to the end of ladder 170, remote component 182 maybe carried by a firefighter positioned on the ground, and not in thebasket at the end of ladder 170. In such an embodiment, the firefighteris able to control operation of nozzles 156 and/or nozzle 166 and/orladder 170 while that firefighter remains positioned on the ground or ata location other than on the ladder 170. Moreover, in such anembodiment, images captured by the camera positioned near the end ofladder 170, and position details of first nozzle 156 and/or secondnozzle 166 are wirelessly communicated to remote component 182. In theexemplary embodiment, images may be displayed on remote component 182 bya firefighter using remote component 182 while using remote component182 to control the operation of ladder 170, first nozzle 156 and/orsecond nozzle 166.

Remote component 180 is configured to communicate wirelessly with basecomponent 110 and to transmit data to base component 110. Base component110 is similarly configured to communicate wirelessly with remotecomponent 180 and to transmit data to remote component 180. In theexemplary embodiment, remote component 180 includes a wirelesstransceiver that enables data to be transmitted and received to/frombase component 110 in the form of radio frequency transmissions. Inother embodiments, remote component 180 and base component 110 includeany other suitable component that is operable to link remote component180 and base component 110 together such that data can be transmittedbetween remote component 180 and base component 110.

When communicating with base component 110, remote component 180transmits a unique identifier with each wireless transmission. Theidentifier associates remote component 180 with first nozzle 156 andenables base component 110 to identify the communications received fromremote component 180 as being associated with first nozzle 156.Similarly, any other remote component 180 associated with second nozzle166 also transmits a unique identifier in each wireless transmissionwith base component 110. Prior to operation of system 100, each remotecomponent 180 may be automatically associated with its respective nozzleas each component is inserted in a specific charging cradle. Forexample, a charging cradle may be provided for each nozzle 156 and/or166 and placement of a remote component 180 in a respective chargingcradle associates that remote component 180 with only one nozzle 156and/or 166. In another embodiment, remote component 180 may beassociated with a respective nozzle 156 and/or 166 by manipulating acontrol or switch on remote component. In an alternative embodiment,each remote component 180 may communicate with base component 110 on adifferent channel or frequency that is unique to only one remotecomponent 180.

Similarly, communications sent by base component 110 to each remotecomponent 180 also include a unique identifier that enables each remotecomponent 180 to identify whether it is the intended recipient of thecommunication. In another embodiment, base component 110 does nottransmit a unique identifier with each communication but rathertransmits communications to each remote component 180 on a differentchannel or frequency that is unique to each remote component 180 beingused.

Returning to FIG. 1, valves 132, 134, 142, 154, and 164 are each coupledto base component 110 such that the operation of each is controlled bybase component 110. Moreover, each valve 132, 134, 142, 154, and 164also includes at least one feedback sensor (not shown) that enables theactuation state of each of valves 132, 134, 142, 154, and/or 164 to bemonitored and continuously communicated to base component 110. Pressuregauges 144, 152, and 162 are each coupled to base component 110 suchthat base component 110 continuously monitors the output (i.e., anoperating pressure) of each pressure gauge 144, 152, and/or 164. In theexemplary embodiment, base component 110 includes a transceiver thatenables data to be transmitted and received wirelessly to/from remotecomponent 180 in the form of wireless communications (e.g., radiofrequency communications). Base component 110 also wirelesslycommunicates the actuation state of valves 132, 134, 142, 154, and/or164, operating pressures sensed by pressure gauges 144, 152, and/or 164,and a rotational speed of pump 120, for example, to remote component180. Base component 110 also wirelessly communicates informationassociated with ladder 170 to remote component 180 and/or 182.

In the exemplary embodiment, base component 110 includes and/or iscoupled to a programmable logic controller (PLC) (not shown). The PLC isoperable to control operation of system 100 based on communicationsreceived from remote component 180, the actuation state of valves 132,134, 142, 154, and/or 164, and the operating pressures sensed bypressure gauges 144, 152, and/or 164 (collectively referred to as“inputs”). Based on inputs received by base component 110, the PLCdetermines, based on predefined logic and/or set of rules (the two termsare referred to herein interchangeably), control operation of system100. The set of rules broadly define the boundary conditions and/oroperating limitations for system 100. For example, the predefined logicmay indicate maximum pressures for hose lines 150 and/or 160, a maximumor minimum operating speed of pump 120, a maximum or minimum operatingpressure in source line 146, and/or a maximum or minimum amount ofliquid to be maintained in tank 130. Such rules may also define theoperational responses of base component 110 for system 100, based oninputs to system 100.

In one example, when base component 110 receives a communication from aremote component 180 associated with first nozzle 156 demanding anincrease in liquid pressure in first hose line 150, the PLC will controloperation of system 100 based on the predefined logic. In such anexample, the set of rules may require that the first valve 154 be openeduntil the desired operating pressure sensed by first pressure gauge 152plus or minus a predefined tolerance (e.g., ±5 psi). If the desiredpressure is not attained, system 100 causes the operating speed of pump120 to increase until the desired operating pressure is sensed by firstpressure gauge 152 plus or minus the predefined tolerance. To maintain adesired or predefined operating pressure in source line 146, theoperating logic may also dictate that the operating speed of pump 120 belimited based on the operating pressure sensed by pressure gauge 144.For example, when liquid source 140 is a fire hydrant, it may benecessary to ensure that the operating pressure in pipes or water mainssupplying the hydrant and thus supplying the operating pressure insource line 146, does not decrease below a predefined threshold tofacilitate preventing the pipes or water mains from collapsing.Accordingly, in such an embodiment, the PLC may reduce the operatingspeed of pump 120. In a situation wherein system 100 is unable toprovide the desired pressure in first hose line 150, as requested in acommunication received from base component 180, the base component 110transmits a communication to remote component 180 indicating as such.After receiving such a communication, remote component 180 may providean audio, vibratory, and/or visual indication to the firefighter. Forexample, in one embodiment, remote component 180 vibrates nozzle handle230 after receiving such a communication and/or illuminate a light onremote component 180 or nozzle 156.

In another example, when base component 110 receives a communicationfrom a remote component 180 associated with first nozzle 156, water flowto first nozzle 156 is ceased. In such an embodiment, the PLC in basecomponent 110 controls operation of system 100 based on the inputs andbased on the predefined logic. The predefined logic requires firstvalves 154 to be closed after receiving such a communication from remotecomponent 180 and that the operating speed of pump 120 is reduced suchthat the operating pressure sensed by gauge 162 remains substantiallyconstant if liquid is being pumped through second hose line 160. Ifliquid is not being channeled through second hose line 160, theoperating speed of pump 120 is reduced to idle, and tank recirculatingvalve 132 and tank supply valve 134 are opened to enable liquid to berecirculated through tank 130. The predefined logic may also requirethat source valve 142 be closed after a level of liquid in tank 130 hasreached a predefined threshold (e.g., a predefined capacity of tank130).

While reference is made herein to the remote control of system 100 byremote component 180, operation of system 100 by remote component 180may be interrupted at any time by a user (e.g., an engineer) positionednear base component 110 and/or positioned remotely from component 180 atthe fire-fighting device. Such user is thus able to control operation ofsystem 100 and override wireless communications transmitted by remotecomponent 180 to base component 110.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an exemplary fire-fighting simulationsystem 300. In the exemplary embodiment, simulation system 300 includesremote component 180, a data logging component 190, an emulationcomponent 210 (broadly referred to here as, an “interface component”),and a computing system 220. Remote component 180 is wirelessly coupledto data logging component 190 and emulation component 210, and emulationcomponent 210 is wirelessly coupled to computing system 220. It shouldbe noted that computing system 220 may be any suitable computer thatincludes at least a processor and at least one form of computer readablemedia with computer executable instructions stored thereon. In theexemplary embodiment, emulation component 210 is a software programhaving computer executable instructions that are stored on the computerreadable media and that are executable by the processor of computingsystem 220. In other embodiments, emulation component 210 is a separatecomponent that is coupled to computing system 220.

Simulation system 300 enables remote component 180 to be used intraining a user (i.e., a trainee) in a simulation environment usingemulation component 210 and computing system 220. Specifically, during asimulation exercise, computing system 220 displays a graphicalrepresentation to trainee depicting a fire-fighting scenario. Emulationcomponent 210 and computing system 220 enable the graphicalrepresentation to be easily changed through manipulation of the controlsof remote component 180 by the trainee. Accordingly, a trainee usingsystem 300 is able to alter the operating pressures in hose lines,change a position of ladder 170, control operation of pump 120, andreceive immediate feedback from emulation component 210 and computingsystem 220 regarding their inputs. For example, a trainee presented witha graphical representation of a fire by emulation component 210 andcomputing system 220, is able to use remote component 180 to manipulatethe position valves and/or ladder 170 of system 100 within thesimulation environment set forth by emulation component 210 andcomputing system 220. Emulation component 210 and computing system 220then react to the inputs of the trainee and change the simulationenvironment based on the inputs.

In the exemplary embodiment, emulation component 210 is controllable bya trainer such that various scenarios can be selectively presented tothe trainee. Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment, using emulationcomponent 210, the trainer is able to present various scenarios to thetrainee that replicate a scenario that the trainee may encounter whenfighting an actual fire. For example, the trainer may instruct theemulation component 210 to simulate the loss of pressure from liquidsource 140. The trainee will then be forced to use remote component 180to close source valve 142 and to open tank supply valve 134 to supplyliquid from tank 130 to pump 120. In one embodiment, other scenariosincluded in emulation component 210 may be executed automatically suchthat the trainer is not required to control emulation component 210 inorder to present the trainee with a continuous presentation of otherscenarios. In another embodiment, emulation component 210 presents agraphical display on computing system 220 that resembles a typicalcontrol panel on a fire-fighting device. The trainee is thus able to useemulation component 210 to practice and train on the operation of thecontrol panel included on the fire-fighting device.

Data logging component 190 stores data on a computer readable form ofmedia. Such data includes data associated with the position of ladder170 and inputs received by remote component 180 from each user. In theexemplary embodiment of FIG. 5, data logging component 190 iscommunicatively coupled to remote component 180. Similarly, in theexemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, data logging component 190is coupled to base component 110 and is operable to store dataassociated with the position of ladder 170, the operation of pump 120,communications received from the remote component 180, the operatingposition of valves 132, 134, 142, 154, and/or 164, and operatingpressures sensed by pressure gauges 144, 152, and/or 162. Data stored bydata logging component 190 may be used to conduct “post action” studiesor reports concerning operation of system 100. Moreover, data stored bydata logging component 190 may also be used to develop scenarios for usein training of personnel using emulation component 210.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method 600 ofcontrolling system 100. Method 600 begins with receiving 610 wirelesscommunication from remote component 180 by base component 110. Suchwireless communication includes instructions input by a user (e.g., afirefighter) into remote component 180. The instructions as describedabove, can include, but are not limited to only including, a desiredoperating pressure of water in first hose line 150 and/or second hoseline 160, a desired actuation state of any of valves 132, 134, 142, 154and/or 154, or a desired flow rate of liquid to be output from firstnozzle 156 and/or second nozzle 166. A flow of liquid to be output fromfirst nozzle 156 and second nozzle 166 is at least partially dependenton the operating speed of pump 120. As such, an instruction for anincrease in the flow rate of liquid to be output from first nozzle 156and/or second nozzle 166 is equivalent to a request to increase theoperating speed of pump 120.

The PLC in base component 110 consults the predefined logic to determine620 whether to execute the received instructions. As described above,the set of rules and logic define boundary conditions for the operationof system 100. Base component 110 then controls 630 operation of system100 using the PLC based on the determination 620 of whether to executethe instructions received 610.

The above-described embodiments provide a cost-effective and reliablemeans of improving the control of a fire-fighting device. Morespecifically, the exemplary systems and method described herein overcomedisadvantages of known fire-fighting control systems by enabling remotecontrol of a fire-fighting device by a firefighter positioned a remotedistance away from the device. As such, an additional user does not needto be positioned near the fire-fighting device to manually control thefire-fighting device. The remote control eliminates the need for wiresor other communication cables extending along the hose lines andcoupling the remote component to the base component. Such wires or othercommunication cables would likely be damaged during use of thefire-fighting device as the hose lines are often drug over roughsurfaces that would damage the wires or cables. Moreover, theembodiments described herein also enable a user to be trained onoperation of the fire-fighting device in a simulation environment.Accordingly, an ordinary computer is able to be used in conjunction withthe remote component to train firefighters on operation of thefire-fighting device. As a result, the systems described hereinfacilitate increasing the efficiency of the fire-fighting control systemin a cost-effective and reliable manner.

Exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for the remote control of afire-fighting device are described above in detail. The methods andapparatus are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein,but rather, components of systems and/or steps of the method may beutilized independently and separately from other components and/or stepsdescribed herein. For example, the systems and methods may also be usedin combination with other fire-fighting systems and methods, and are notlimited to practice with only the fire-fighting device as describedherein. Rather, the exemplary embodiment can be implemented and utilizedin connection with many other fire-fighting devices.

Although specific features of various embodiments of the invention maybe shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenienceonly. Moreover, references to “one embodiment” in the above descriptionare not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence ofadditional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Inaccordance with the principles of the invention, any feature of adrawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any featureof any other drawing.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the invention, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope ofthe invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examplesthat occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intendedto be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elementsthat do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if theyinclude equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differencesfrom the literal language of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A control system for use with a fire-fightingdevice including a plurality of valves, said system comprising: a firstdisplay coupled to the fire-fighting device, said first displayconfigured to display a plurality of valve indicators each indicating anactuation state of a valve of the plurality of valves; a second displaycoupled to the fire-fighting device and positioned remotely from saidfirst display, said second display configured to display the sameplurality of valve indicators as the first display; and a controller incommunication with said first display and said second display, saidcontroller configured to receive an actuation state of at least onevalve of the plurality of valves and output the actuation state to saidfirst display and said second display such that said first display andsaid second display displays one of the plurality of valve indicatorsassociated with the actuation state.
 2. A control system in accordancewith claim 1, wherein the plurality of valve indicators includes a firstindicator indicating an actuation state of a first valve configured tocontrol a first flow of fluid from a storage tank at the fire-fightingdevice, a second indicator indicating an actuation state of a secondvalve configured to control a second flow of fluid from a fluid source,a third indicator indicating an actuation state of a third valveconfigured to control a third flow of fluid to a nozzle, and a fourthindicator indicating an actuation state of a fourth valve configured tocontrol a fourth flow of fluid into the storage tank.
 3. A controlsystem in accordance with claim 1, wherein said first display includes auser interface including a plurality of input controls for controllingthe fire-fighting device.
 4. A control system in accordance with claim3, wherein the plurality of input controls includes at least one of apressure control for controlling a fluid pressure of fluid in a firsthose line of the fire-fighting device and a pump control for controllingoperation of a pump of the fire-fighting device.
 5. A control system inaccordance with claim 4, wherein the plurality of input controls furtherincludes a ladder control that controls a position of a ladder of thefire-fighting device.
 6. A control system in accordance with claim 1,wherein at least one of said first display and said second displayincludes a touch sensitive screen.
 7. A control system in accordancewith claim 1 further comprising a feedback sensor in communication withsaid controller and the at least one valve, wherein said feedback sensoris configured to detect the actuation state of the at least one valve.8. A control system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said controllerhas predefined logic stored thereon, and wherein said controllerautomatically controls operation of a pump of the fire-fighting devicebased at least in part on the actuation states of the plurality ofvalves and the predefined logic.
 9. A control system in accordance withclaim 8, wherein said first display includes a user interface configuredto receive a user-requested parameter of fluid, and wherein saidcontroller further automatically controls operation of the pump based onthe user-requested parameter of fluid.
 10. A control system inaccordance with claim 1, wherein said first display is coupled to anozzle of the fire-fighting device.
 11. A control system in accordancewith claim 1, wherein said second display is provided on a portableremote component.
 12. A fire-fighting system comprising: a fire-fightingdevice including a plurality of valves; a first display coupled to saidfire-fighting device, said first display configured to display aplurality of valve indicators each indicating an actuation state of arespective valve of said plurality of valves; a second display coupledto said fire-fighting device and positioned remotely from said firstdisplay, said second display configured to display the same plurality ofvalve indicators as said first display; and a controller incommunication with said first display and said second display, saidcontroller configured to receive an actuation state of at least onevalve of said plurality of valves and output the actuation state to saidfirst display and said second display such that said first display andsaid second display displays one of the plurality of valve indicatorsassociated with the actuation state.
 13. A fire-fighting system inaccordance with claim 12, wherein said plurality of valves includes afirst valve configured to control a first flow of fluid from a storagetank at said fire-fighting device, a second valve configured to controla second flow of fluid from a fluid source, a third valve configured tocontrol a third flow of fluid to a nozzle, and a fourth valve configuredto control a fourth flow of fluid into the storage tank.
 14. Afire-fighting system in accordance with claim 13, wherein the pluralityof valve indicators include a first indicator indicating an actuationstate of said first valve, a second indicator indicating an actuationstate of said second valve, a third indicator indicating an actuationstate of said third valve, and a fourth indicator indicating anactuation state of said fourth valve.
 15. A fire-fighting system inaccordance with claim 12, wherein said first display includes a userinterface including a plurality of input controls for controlling saidfire-fighting device, the plurality of input controls including at leastone of a pressure control for controlling a fluid pressure of fluid in afirst hose line of said fire-fighting device and a pump control forcontrolling operation of a pump of said fire-fighting device.
 16. Afire-fighting system in accordance with claim 12, wherein at least oneof said first display and said second display includes a touch sensitivescreen.
 17. A fire-fighting system in accordance with claim 12, whereinsaid fire-fighting device is a fire truck.
 18. A fire-fighting system inaccordance with claim 12, wherein said first display is coupled to anozzle of the fire-fighting device.
 19. A method of controlling afire-fighting device comprising: determining, by at least one controllerof the fire-fighting device, an actuation state of at least one valve ofa plurality of valves associated with the fire-fighting device;outputting, by the at least one controller, the determined actuationstate to a first display coupled to the fire-fighting device and asecond display coupled to the fire-fighting device, the second displaypositioned remotely from the first display, wherein each of the firstdisplay and the second display is configured to display a plurality ofvalve indicators each indicating an actuation state of a valve of theplurality of valves; displaying, in response to receiving the determinedactuation state, a first valve indicator of the plurality of valveindicators associated with the determined actuation state at the firstdisplay; and displaying, in response to receiving the determinedactuation state, the first valve indicator at the second display.
 20. Amethod in accordance with claim 19 further comprising: receiving, at auser-interface of the first display, a user-requested parameter offluid; and automatically controlling, by the at least one controller,operation of a pump of the fire-fighting device based on theuser-requested parameter of fluid.